The “Goldilocks” Guide to Choosing a Storage Unit Size
Picking a storage unit can feel like a guessing game. Choose one too small, and you’re stuck cramming boxes to the ceiling; choose one too large, and you’re paying to store “expensive air.”
At Los Hermanos Storage, we want you to get the most bang for your buck. Here is how to eyeball the perfect space for your stuff.
Think in “Room Equivalents”
If square footage numbers don’t mean much to you, try visualizing these common household spaces:
- 5′ x 5′ (25 sq. ft.): The “Walk-in Closet.” This is perfect for those “overflow” items. Think 20–30 medium boxes, a bicycle, or your off-season holiday decor and sports gear.
- 5′ x 10′ (50 sq. ft.): The “Cargo Van.” If you could fit it all in a large van, it’ll fit here. This holds the contents of a studio apartment—including a queen mattress, a dresser, and a few chairs.
- 10′ x 10′ (100 sq. ft.): The “Half Garage.” This is our most popular size. It comfortably fits a one-bedroom apartment’s worth of furniture, appliances, and stacked boxes.
- 10′ x 15′ (150 sq. ft.): The “Large Bedroom.” Moving a two-bedroom home? This unit handles the big stuff, like dining room sets, large sofas, and multiple appliances.
- 10′ x 20′ (200 sq. ft.): The “Standard One-Car Garage.” This is built for the “big move.” It fits a three-bedroom house
The “Aisle” Rule: How Often Will You Visit?
Before you rent, ask yourself: Am I dropping this off for a year, or will I need my bike every Saturday?
- The “Deep Freeze” Approach: If you don’t need access, you can pack a smaller unit tight from wall-to-wall to save money.
- The “Storefront” Approach: If you’ll be grabbing items frequently, size up. You’ll want enough extra floor space to leave a “center aisle” so you can reach the back items without a total unloading project.
Don’t Forget the “Hidden” Space (The Ceiling)
Most people only look at the floor, but our storage units have at space extending to the ceiling: Use sturdy plastic bins to stack high (heaviest on the bottom!).
- Stand It Up: Store mattresses, sofas (on end-caps), and tables vertically to save massive amounts of floor space.
The “Tape Test”
Not sure if that 10’x10′ is enough? Grab some painter’s tape and mark out a 10-foot by 10-foot square on your driveway or garage floor. Stack your furniture inside those lines. If it fits there, it’ll fit at Los Hermanos!
Ready to Find Your Storage Unit Fit?
Whether you’re clearing out the garage or moving the whole house, we have the space you need at a price that makes sense.
Los Hermanos Storage offers secure, drive-up units in every size. Call us at 505-445-1525 or reserve your Available Storage Unit here to grab your unit today!